Interviewer-administered Questionnaire Research Articles

Magnesium-Rich Diet Score is Inversely Associated with Incident Cardiovascular Disease: The Atherosclerosis in Communities (ARIC) Study.

Numerous studies have shown inverse associations between serum magnesium (Mg) and risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), but studies of dietary Mg have not been consistent. To examine the association of a Mg-rich diet score with risks of CVD, coronary heart disease (CHD), and ischemic stroke in the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) study. There were 15,022 Black and White adults without prevalent CVD at baseline (1987-89) included in this analysis. Diet was assessed at two visits 6 years apart using an interviewer-administered 66-item food frequency questionnaire. A Mg-rich diet score was created that included servings of whole grain products, nuts, vegetables, fruit, legumes, coffee, and tea. Cox proportional hazard regression evaluated associations of incident CVD, CHD and stroke across quintiles of Mg-rich diet score, adjusting for demographics, lifestyle factors, and clinical characteristics. Over >30 years of follow-up, there were 3,531 incident CVD events (2,562 CHD, 1,332 ischemic stroke). Participants who consumed more Mg-rich foods were older, female, White, had lower blood pressure, fewer were not current smokers, and more reported being physically active. A Mg-rich diet was inversely associated with incident CVD (HRQ5 vs Q1=0.87, 95%CI: 0.77-0.98, ptrend=0.02) CHD (HRQ5 vs Q1=0.82, 95%CI: 0.71-0.95, ptrend=0.01); however, the diet-stroke association was null (HRQ5 vs Q1=1.00, 95%CI: 0.82-1.22, ptrend=0.97). Consuming a diet including Mg-rich foods, such as whole grains, nuts, vegetables, fruits, legumes, coffee and tea, is associated with lower risk of CVD and CHD, but not ischemic stroke.

DEMOGRAPHIC, ECONOMIC AND PSYCHOLOGICAL DRIVERS OF WOMEN'S PARTICIPATION IN RURAL TOURISM IN DARJEELING DISTRICT, WEST BENGAL, INDIA

Rural tourism has gained global popularity, with varying characteristics across regions. This study explores the demographic, economic, and psychological factors influencing women's participation in rural tourism in Darjeeling, West Bengal, India. Despite its proximity to Sikkim, Darjeeling remains under-researched, particularly regarding women's motivations. Data from 200 women, including 50 in the hospitality sector, were collected via a pre-tested, interviewer-administered questionnaire to understand the push factors for their involvement. The analysis shows that middle-aged, married women with secondary or less education dominate the rural tourism workforce. Their primary motivations are economic need, improved educational opportunities for their children, and escaping socioeconomic challenges. Significant economic drivers include contributing to family businesses and achieving financial independence. Psychological factors, such as improving living conditions and securing future stability, also play a crucial role, though aspirations for leadership and decision-making are less prominent due to cultural norms. The findings highlight rural tourism's critical role in providing employment and empowerment opportunities for women in Darjeeling. Enhancing participation and empowerment requires addressing economic and psychological needs, improving income levels, supporting leadership roles, and fostering greater family decision-making power. These efforts can strengthen women's involvement in rural tourism, boosting their socioeconomic development and quality of life.

Knowledge Attitude Practice of Malaria Preventive Measures Amongst Attendees of ESUT Teaching Hospital, Parklane Enugu

Aims: To determine the knowledge of malaria and its preventive measures among antenatal attendees of ESUT Teaching Hospital,to determine the preventive measures taken to prevent malaria,To determine the factors that influence their preventive practices towards malaria.  Study Design: This is a descriptive cross-sectional study which was conducted using interviewer-administered questionnaire.  Place and Duration of Study: The study area is antenatal ward situated in ESUT Teaching Hospital, which is located in Parklane GRA, Enugu, Nigeria, between June and July 2019.  Methodology: We included willing antenatal attendees of ESUT Teaching Hospital from the age of 15 irrespective of their gestational age of pregnancy. A total of 360 pregnant women participated in the study.  Results: Out of 355 questionnaires that were distributed only 323 were recovered, giving a response rate of 90.99%.The overall knowledge of the cause of malaria was relatively good, as 310 (96%) respondents believed that it was caused by mosquito bite, while only a few 38 (14.5%) did not know the cause.Also,more younger respondents 156 (90.7%) were knowledgeable about the use of Insecticides Treated Nets (ITNs) and Intermittent Preventive Therapy(IPT)in the prevention of malaria with p = 0.031 and p=0.001 respectively.  Conclusion: We were able to deduct that majority of the pregnant women who participated in the study had a good knowledge of cause of malaria and it's effect on the unborn child,however the practice varies amongst individual and dependents on various factors including age,educational level,occupation and religious beliefs. Thus, we are recommending the government to make insecticide treated nets and insecticides readily accessible, in addition, health care providers should reinforce their health talks on the need to use insecticide treated nets while pregnant.

Long lasting insecticidal nets utilization and associated factors among households of West Arsi Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia

Long-lasting insecticide nets are often used as a physical barrier to prevent infection of malaria. In sub-Saharan Africa, one of the most important ways of lowering the malaria burden is the utilization of long-lasting insecticide-treated nets. However, there is no sufficient information on long-lasting insecticide utilization in Ethiopia. Therefore, the study was aimed to assess long-lasting insecticide net utilization and associated factors among households of West Arsi Zone, Oromia, Southern Ethiopia, 2023. A community-based cross-sectional study design was conducted in West Arsi Zone with a sample of 2808 households from May 01 to 30, 2023. Data were collected from households by using interviewer-administered structured questionnaires. Data were checked, coded, and entered into Epinfo version 7, cleaned, and analyzed by SPSS version 25. Descriptive analysis was used to present frequencies, proportions, and graphs. Binary logistic regression analysis was computed and the variables with p-values less than 0.25 were selected to be included in the multivariable model. The final model was interpreted using an adjusted odd ratio with a 95% confidence interval and p-value < 0.05 to declare the statistical association between the outcome and independent variables. About 2389 (86.2%) of households have long-lasting insecticide nets that can be used while sleeping. But the overall prevalence of long-lasting insecticide nets utilization was 69.9% with (95% CI 68.1–71.8). Being female as household head (AOR 1.69, 95% CI 1.33–4.15), number of separate rooms in the living house (AOR 1.80, 95% CI 1.23–2.29), duration of long-lasting insecticide nets used to be replaced (AOR 2.81, 95% CI 2.18–5.35), knowledge status of the respondents (AOR 3.68; 95% CI 2.48–6.97) were significantly associated with long-lasting insecticide nets utilization. The overall Household’s level of LLINs utilization was found to be low as compared to the national standard of Ethiopia, which is to be ≥ 85. The study identified that being female as household head, the number of separate rooms in the living house, the duration of long-lasting insecticide nets used to be replaced, knowledge status of the respondents were the predictors of long-lasting insecticide nets utilization among members of households. Thus, to improve the usage of LLINs, the West Arsi Zone Health Office and stakeholders should strengthen the long-term insecticide net utilization at the household level by educating the community with appropriate information.

Assessment of knowledge, attitude, and practice of solid waste management system among households of Darge sub-city, east Wollega Zone, Oromia, Western Ethiopia

Background: Inappropriate solid waste management produced in the course of human activities has serious problems for the environment that adversely affect the health of the human population. Thus, towns and cities in developing countries like Ethiopia face environmental health and aesthetic problems resulting from improper management of solid waste disposal. Uncontrolled waste management may also contribute to the transmission of communicable diseases from different systems as well as encourage fly breading, which has nuisance effects in addition to disease transmission. Objective: To assess knowledge, attitude, and practice of solid waste management systems in households in Darge sub-city, East Wollega Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted using systematic random sampling techniques from February 1st to February 15th, 2022. Data was collected from 278 households using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. After data collection, data analysis was performed using SPSS computer software version 22.0. Results: The study showed that 67.3% had good knowledge, 65.86% had a positive attitude, and 63.3% had good practice in solid waste management (SWM). Among the households, 12.6% and 42.1% dispose of solid waste in open fields and open disposal pits, respectively. The perceived reason for improper solid waste disposal was a lack of awareness (55.4%) and a shortage of a place for solid waste disposal (30.6%). Conclusion: The knowledge, attitude, and practice of households in the study area need improvement according to standards for towns and sub-cities. Increasing knowledge, changing attitudes, and improving practice in SWM using the existing structure are recommended.

Posttraumatic stress disorder and its associated factors among people living in Dabat district, northwest Ethiopia

BackgroundThe conflict between the Ethiopian government and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF) in the Dabat district of Ethiopia has led to significant civilian casualties, instances of rape, sexual abuse, and property theft. These traumatic events contribute to the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among local residents. However, there is currently no available data on the prevalence of PTSD and its associated factors in this region. This study seeks to fill this gap by assessing PTSD prevalence and identifying related factors among residents of the war-affected Dabat district in northwest Ethiopia.MethodA community-based correctional study was conducted in the Woken and China kebeles of Dabat district, northwest Ethiopia, spanning from July 13 to September 19, 2023. A total of 410 participants were selected using systematic random sampling, making a 100% response rate. The study utilized an interviewer-administered questionnaire, which included the Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Checklist (PCL-5) to assess PTSD. The research investigated the association between PTSD and various demographic and psychosocial characteristics using both bivariate and multivariable binary logistic regression analyses. Statistical significance was set at a P-value of 0.05.ResultsThe majority of participants in the study were male (62%) with a mean age of 33 ( ± 1.67) years. The overall prevalence of PTSD was 30.7% (95% CI: 26.6–35.10). Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified several factors significantly associated with PTSD: symptoms of depression (AOR=3.5; 95% CI: 1.13-6.89), age between 45 and 67 years (AOR=1.68; 95% CI: 1.04-5.78), experiencing stressful life events (AOR=1.63; 95% CI: 1.05-7.86), experiencing sexual abuse or rape (AOR=1.53; 95% CI: 1.07-6.75), chewing khat (AOR=1.48; 95% CI: 1.08-4.56), being female (AOR=1.43; 95% CI: 1.13-3.67), and having an income of 34.6 USD (AOR=1.28; 95% CI: 1.07-4.67).Conclusion and recommendationThis study reported that the prevalence of PTSD was high. As a result, the study suggested that governments and other stakeholders should be involved in implementing efficient interventions and quick measures to mitigate the effects of war on mental health following the conflict. The government and nongovernmental organizations were also advised by these studies to continue providing humanitarian assistance, which should include access to food, clean water, clothing, shelter, and education. This study also suggested that people living in conflict zones should be legally protected from rape, sexual abuse, arson, detention without cause, and kidnapping.

Measles second dose vaccine uptake and associated factors among under-five children in Jigjiga City, Somali Region, Eastern Ethiopia: a community-based cross-sectional study

BackgroundMeasles is one of the leading causes of under-five mortality and morbidity worldwide. Although the routine service for the second dose of the measles-containing vaccine (MCV2) was introduced in Ethiopia recently, there is a paucity of evidence regarding its coverage and the factors that hinder its uptake at both the local and national levels. Thus, this study aimed to assess the uptake of MCV2 and its associated factors among children aged between 15 and 36 months old in Jigjiga City, Somali Region, Ethiopia.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 429 children aged between 15 and 36 months old with their mothers/caregivers in Jigjiga City from April 1 to May 1, 2023. A multistage sampling technique was used and data were collected by using structured interviewer-administered questionnaires. The collected data were entered into Epi-data version 3.2 and analyzed in a statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 26. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with the uptake of the measles second dose vaccine. An adjusted odds ratio with 95% CI were reported and statistical significance was declared at p &amp;lt; 0.05.ResultsThe coverage of MCV2 among children aged between 15 and 36 months was 21.4% (95% CI: 17.7, 25.2). The educational status of the mother (AOR = 3.154; 95% CI: 1.68, 5.93), place of delivery (AOR = 1.90; 95% CI: 1.08, 3.25), postnatal care visits of the mother (AOR = 2.40; 95% CI: 1.37, 4.22), time taken to reach a health facility (AOR = 2.67; 95% CI: 1.28, 5.57), and knowledge about child vaccination (AOR = 2.43; 95% CI: 1.45, 4.08) were factors significantly associated with the uptake of the measles second dose vaccine.ConclusionThe coverage of MCV2 in the study area was low compared to the national immunization targets. Educational status of the mother/caregivers, place of delivery, postnatal care visits of the mother, time to reach a health facility, and knowledge about vaccination of children were significantly associated with measles second dose vaccination. The focus should be given to improving the awareness of mothers on the importance of child vaccination to improve the uptake of measles second dose vaccine and reduce the burden of measles in the region.

Factors associated with severe pneumonia among children

BackgroundPneumonia is one of the leading causes of infant mortality globally, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. In Uganda, pneumonia was the fourth leading cause of death in children <5 years in 2018. Analysis of 2013–2022 data for children <5 years from the District Health Information System indicated a high incidence of severe pneumonia in Kasese District, Uganda. We investigated to identify factors associated with severe pneumonia among children <5 years in Kasese District to inform prevention and control strategies.MethodsWe conducted a 1:1 hospital-based case-control study among children aged 2–59 months presenting with pneumonia at five high-volume facilities in Kasese District from January to April 2023. A case was defined as pneumonia with ≥1 of the following danger signs: low oxygen saturation, central cyanosis, severe respiratory distress, feeding difficulties, altered consciousness, and convulsions. Controls were outpatient children aged 2–59 months with a diagnosis of non-severe pneumonia. We reviewed medical records at facilities and used an interviewer-administered questionnaire with caregivers to obtain information on socio-demographic and clinical characteristics. Logistic regression was used to identify factors associated with severe pneumonia.ResultsWe enrolled 199 cases and 174 controls. The odds of severe pneumonia were higher among children with diarrhoea only (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 2.9, 95%CI: 1.7–4.9), or malaria and diarrhoea (aOR = 3.4, 95%CI: 2.0-5.9), than those without a co-existing illness at the time of pneumonia diagnosis. Not being exclusively breastfed for ≥ 6 months (aOR = 2.0, 95%CI: 1.1–3.3) and exposure to indoor air pollution from cooking combustion sources (aOR = 2.9, 95%CI: 1.8–4.7) increased odds of severe pneumonia.ConclusionThe findings highlight the significance of comorbidities, lack of exclusive breastfeeding, and exposure to indoor air pollution in the development of severe pneumonia. Promoting exclusive breastfeeding for ≥ 6 months and advocating for the use of clean energy sources, could mitigate morbidity attributable to severe pneumonia in the region.

Barriers to Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Practices in Mutare District, 2022

Background: Sanitation and hygiene are extremely important for survival, development and health. Inadequate sanitation expose people to water, sanitation and hygiene related diseases. Mutare district has been increasingly recording unsatisfactory bacteriological tests from the first quarter of 2019 to the first quarter of 2023 and water-borne infections have been increasing. We evaluated the WASH program in Mutare district. Methods: We conducted a program evaluation using logical framework approach. Twenty-one health facilities were sampled and 63 participants recruited. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to assess healthcare worker (HCW) knowledge and review of environmental records was done. Resources required for the health facilities WASH programs were assessed using a checklist. Frequencies, means and proportions were generated. Results: The median years of service of HCW was 9 years. The district lacked land and water pollution control strategies and consumables for water bacteriological testing. Aquatabs were in limited supply. Some of the visited health facilities (6/21) poorly segregated waste, although all the HCW were mentored on WASH activities. Conclusion: Inadequate water test kits and other resources compromises the performance of the WASH program. Segregation of waste appropriately reduces the risk of infection and injuries among the waste handlers.

Unintended Consequences of Urban Expansion and Gold Mining: Elevated Indoor Radon Levels in Gauteng Communities’ Neighboring Gold Mine Tailings

The province of Gauteng in South Africa has a rich history of gold mining, which has driven economic growth and urbanization. Gold mining has also created over 270 gold mine tailings (GMT), now surrounded by human settlements due to a housing shortage. These GMT pose a health risk as they harbor elevated uranium, which over time undergoes radioactive decay to produce radon, a known lung carcinogen. This study aimed to investigate the potential correlation between the proximity to gold mine tailings (GMT) and indoor radon concentrations in Gauteng’s residential dwellings. Volume activity of radon (VAR) inside 330 residential dwellings was measured in residential dwellings located proximally (&lt;2 km) and distally (&gt;2 km) to gold mine tailings using AlphaE radon monitors during winter. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was utilized to obtain data on factors that may influence indoor radon activities. Descriptive statistics and bivariate logistic regression analyzed the influence of proximity to gold mine tailings and dwelling characteristics on VAR. Furthermore, VAR was compared to the World Health Organization (WHO) radon reference level of 100 Bq/m3. Residential dwellings near gold mine tailings had significantly higher average indoor radon concentrations (103.30 Bq/m3) compared to the control group (65.19 Bq/m3). Residential dwellings proximal to gold mine tailings were three times more likely to have VAR beyond the WHO reference level of 100 Bq/m3. Furthermore, they had estimated annual effective doses of 2.60 mSv/y compared to 1.64 mSv/y for the control group. This study highlighted a concerning association between proximity to gold mine tailings and elevated indoor radon levels. Public health interventions prioritizing residential dwellings near gold mine tailings are crucial. Educational campaigns and financial assistance for radon mitigation systems in high-risk dwellings are recommended. Residents near gold mine tailings are encouraged to ensure continuous natural ventilation through frequent opening of windows and doors.

Chlamydia Trachomatis Infection among Pelvic Inflammatory Disease Patients Attending the Gynaecology Clinic of a Private Tertiary Hospital in Ogun State, Nigeria

Background: Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is one of the very serious complications arising from sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and Chlamydia trachomatis has been implicated as one of the commonest causes of STI. Considering the adverse sequelae of PID, there is a need for locally relevant data which will guide preventive and therapeutic efforts. Detection of a combination of immunoglobulin G (IgG) and immunoglobulin A (IgA) has been described as an indicator of an actively chronic infection Aims: The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of Chlamydia trachomatis infection by the use of IgA and IgG and evaluate the associated risk factors among females that presented with Pelvic inflammatory disease at the gynaecology clinic of Babcock University Teaching Hospital. Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria. (BUTH) Materials and Methods: This was a hospital–based, case-controlled study involving 44 patients diagnosed with PID and 44 age-matched controls at the gynaecology clinic of BUTHI. Interviewer-administered questionnaires were used to obtain information on socio-demographic characteristics, and risk factors for PID, from consenting participants. Blood samples were collected from each participant and analysed, using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, for Chlamydia trachomatis type‑specific for IgA and IgG. Analysis was done by SPSS, IBM version 23.0 Results: Both IgG and IgA were present in 15 cases (34.1%) as compared to none of the controls. The difference between Chlamydia IgG, IgA and (IgG+IgA) among the cases and the controls were statistically significant. Majority of the participants positive for the immunoglobulins were aged 25 years or younger (11, 73.3%), number of lifetime sex partners and age of first sexual intercourse being 18 years or younger were statistically associated with Chlamydia trachomatis causing PID. Conclusion: Chlamydia trachomatis remains an important causative pathogen of PID and more prevalent among the young people. Screening is advocated among the young in resource limited countries.

Near miss road traffic accidents and associated factors among truck drivers in Gamo zone, southern Ethiopia by using a contributory factors interaction model.

Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are among the leading causes of injuries, fatalities, and the resulting increase in financial burdens worldwide. Every year, RTAs cause numerous serious injuries and fatalities in Ethiopia. it is important to understand how prevalent near-miss crash accidents are, and which by definition could have injured the victim but did not result in an actual accident. The determinants of these near-misses are essential in road crash accident reduction strategies. In spite of the fact that near-miss accidents are much more common than actual losses or injuries, very little research has been conducted on them. Thus, this study was intended to assess the near-miss accidents and associated factors among truckers in Gamo zone, southern Ethiopia. The community-based cross-sectional study was employed from May 12 to July 10,2022, using a structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. A simple random sampling technique was used to select participants. The data were analyzed using the statistical package for social sciences. A binary and multivariate logistic regression model was used to identify the determinants of near-miss accidents. A statistical significance level was set at p < 0.05. About 72.5% of truckers had experienced near-miss road traffic accidents. The majority of the near-miss accidents were caused by speeding, followed by driving on the wrong side of the road and skidding, 65 (22.6%), 39 (13.5%), and 38 (13.2%), respectively. Driving frequency per week, location of accidents, condition of the road, sleeping status, and weather conditions were significantly associated with near-miss accidents. The prevalence of near-miss accidents is high in the Gamo zone. Being a younger and less educated driver, high driving frequency per week, driving on major roads and junctions, foggy weather, and inadequate sleep all contribute to the occurrence of accidents. Road safety measures that could address these identified factors are required to mitigate potential RTAs.

Understanding the barriers and facilitators of human papillomavirus vaccine uptake in Kwale and Mombasa counties in Kenya: A study protocol

Background Cervical cancer poses a significant public health problem globally. Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination protects against HPV types 16 and 18, responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases. The optimal vaccination age is in the early adolescent period before sexual debut with possible HPV infection. In 2019, through the Ministry of Health, the Kenya government introduced the HPV vaccine to 10-14-year-old girls. However, analysis of the vaccine coverage across the counties shows that uptake is suboptimal. Our study proposes to apply the World Health Organization (WHO) Measuring Behavioural and Social Drivers (BeSD) of the vaccination framework to understand the barriers and facilitators of HPV vaccine uptake in two counties of Kenya. Methods The study design will be cross-sectional, utilising a mixed methods approach for data collection. We will sample 668 girls aged 10–14 years, across the two counties of Kwale and Mombasa and collect data using using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. Qualitative data will be collected through focus group discussions with CHEWs, and community leaders, and key informant interviews with nurses, clinical officers, vaccine program managers and national vaccine focal persons. We will use the WHO BeSDvaccination framework as our conceptual framework. Significance Understanding the barriers and facilitators for HPV vaccination will help in developing strategies to be applied for improving HPV vaccine uptake.

Asymptomatic malaria in pregnancy and associated risk factors in Majang Zone, Gambella Region, Southwest Ethiopia: a hard-to-reach malaria hotspot

BackgroundAsymptomatic malaria in pregnancy (AMiP) is a daunting public health problem with multifaceted adverse outcomes for mothers, fetuses, newborns and beyond. This study aimed to assess the prevalence and risk factors of AMiP and anaemia in Majang Zone, Gambella, Southwest Ethiopia.MethodsA facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 425 pregnant women attending the antenatal care (ANC) clinics of five health facilities in the Majang Zone from November 2022 to February 2023. Sociodemographic, obstetric, and anti-malarial intervention data were collected using an interviewer-administered questionnaire. A capillary blood specimen was collected to diagnose malaria and anaemia as well as determine the blood group. Malaria was diagnosed by rapid diagnostic test (RDT), microscopy, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Statistical analyses were done by Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) version 26.0. The association between dependent and independent variables was assessed by multivariable binary logistic regression, considering P < 0.05 statistically significant. The magnitude of associations was quantified with the adjusted odds ratio (AOR) along with the corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI).ResultsThe overall prevalence of AMiP was 15.3% (95% CI 12.1, 18.9). It was 11.3% (95% CI 8.4, 14.7) by RDT, 11.8% (95% CI 8.9, 15.2) by microscopy and 17.6% (95% CI 11.7, 24.9) by qPCR. Plasmodium falciparum, moderate parasitaemia and submicroscopic infection accounted for 55.4% of the AMiP prevalence, 50.8% of the parasite density, and 41.6% of the qPCR-positive AMiP, respectively. Nearly 32.3% of pregnant women with AMiP carried gametocytes. Risk factors of AMiP were: not utilizing insecticide-treated net (ITN) within the previous week (AOR: 9.43 95% CI 1.57, 56.62), having a history of malaria within the previous year (AOR: 2.26 95% CI 1.16, 4.42), lack of indoor residual spraying (IRS) within the previous year (AOR: 3.00 95% CI 1.50, 6.00), and ANC contact below two rounds (AOR: 4.28 95% CI 2.06, 8.87). The prevalence of anaemia was 27.7% (95% CI 23.6, 32.1), and it was higher among AMiP-positives (56.9%) than the negatives (22.5%) (P: 000).ConclusionThe prevalence of AMiP and anaemia was high, and remained as a critical public health problem in the study area. Focus on the identified risk factors and introduction of more sensitive diagnostic tools should be considered to mitigate AMiP in the study area.

Self-efficacy of PLHIV for self-management at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundSelf-efficacy is the ability to execute, and it is a critical predictor of health-related outcomes among people living with human immunodeficiency virus (PLHIV). Self-efficacy directly determines treatment outcome. However, there is no evidence on the self-efficacy of PLHIV for self-management in Ethiopia. Currently, HIV is considered a manageable chronic disease. However, the burden remains high despite all the taken measures.ObjectivesThis study aimed to assess the self-efficacy of PLHIV for self-management at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital (UOGCSH), northwest Ethiopia, 2022.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted on PLHIV selected by a systematic random sampling technique using an interviewer-administered questionnaire at the UOGCSH from August 10 to September 30, 2022. The data was entered and analyzed using the Statically Package for Social Science version 25.0. Categorical variables were summarized as frequency (percentage) of the total. Both descriptive and inferential statistics, such as the Kruskal-Wallis H test and Mann-Whitney U test were performed to detect difference. P-value < 0.05 was considered to indicate statistically significance.ResultsOverall, 405 PLHIV participated in the study, giving a 96% response rate. The overall median (Interquartile range) self-efficacy score of PLHIV for self-management was 22 (4) and 67.4% of the PLHIV self-efficacy score was above the median. A statistically significant difference was detected between the social support groups (χ2 (2) = 37.17, p < 0.0001), education background (U = 10,347, Z = 2.279, P = 0.023, r = 0.113), living conditions (U = 12,338, Z = 2.457, P = 0.014, r = 0.122) and medication adherence (U = 9516.5, Z = 3.699, P < 0.0001, r = 0.184).ConclusionMost participants’ self-efficacy score was above the median. Statistically significant differences in self-efficacy were observed based on individual, environmental, and clinical factors. We suggest training and workshops for healthcare workers and the hospital and adherence support groups should work to improve the self-efficacy of PLHIV.

Disparities in satisfaction among insured and uninsured adult outpatient department service users in Southern Ethiopia, 2022: a comparative cross-sectional study

BackgroundPatient satisfaction is a critical measure of the quality of healthcare services provided by healthcare facilities. However, very few studies, particularly in Ethiopia, which includes the study area, have specifically examined these discrepancies among people who use outpatient care. In this study, satisfaction levels and associated factors were compared between insured and uninsured patients receiving outpatient services at public health institutions in Hadiya Zone, southern Ethiopia.MethodsA facility-based comparative cross-sectional study design was employed on 630 patients using multistage and systematic random sampling. Data were collected using a pretested and structured interviewer-administered questionnaire. Results of the analysis were presented in text, tables, and graphs as appropriate. Multivariable logistic regression was used to predict associations between predictors and the outcome variable. Statistical significance was declared at p-value < 0.05.ResultsOverall, 344(55.48%) patients were satisfied with the service they received, of which 206(65.8%) out of 313 with a 95% CI [60.7–71.2%] were insured and 138(44.95%) out of 307 with a 95% CI [39.4–5.1%] were uninsured. Among insured patients, factors associated with higher satisfaction included having a family size less than five members [AOR = 3.3, 95% CI; 1.5, 7.4], perceived fair waiting time to be seen[AOR = 2.35, 95% CI; 1.02, 5.5], perceived short waiting time to be seen[AOR = 8.12, 95% CI; 1.6, 41.3], having all ordered laboratory tests available within the facility[AOR = 7.89, 95% CI; 3.5, 17.5], having some ordered laboratory tests within the facility[AOR = 2.97, 95% CI; 1.25, 7.01] having all prescribed medications available within the facility[AOR = 16.11, 95% CI; 6.25, 41.5], having some prescribed medications available within the facility[AOR = 13.11, 95% CI; 4.7, 36.4]. Among non-insured patients, factors associated with higher satisfaction included urban residency, a fair and short perceived time to be seen, having ordered laboratory tests within the facility, and having prescribed drugs within the facility.ConclusionThis study identified lower overall satisfaction, particularly among uninsured patients. Enrollment in the CBHI program significantly impacted satisfaction, with both groups reporting lower levels compared to enrollment periods. Access to essential services, wait times, and socio-demographic factors identified as associated factors with patient satisfaction regardless of insurance status.

Coronavirus disease 2019 vaccination acceptance and associated factors among residents of Dire Dawa Administration, Eastern Ethiopia: a community-based cross-sectional study

BackgroundCorona virus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an extremely contagious viral infection caused by the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2. Understanding the willingness of the community to receive the COVID-19 vaccine will help in the development and implementation of effective COVID-19 vaccination promotion programs. Therefore, we aimed to assess the level of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and associated factors among residents of Dire Dawa Administration, Eastern Ethiopia.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 840 residents in Dire Dawa Administration from May 18th to June 18th, 2021. Multistage cluster sampling followed by systematic random sampling was used to select respondents. A pretested interviewer-administered structured questionnaire was used to collect the data from respondents. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression were used to identify predictors of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. The odds ratio (OR), along with a 95% confidence interval (CI), was used to estimate the strength of the association.ResultsOut of 840 respondents recruited, the proportion of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance was found to be 54.4% (457/840); (95% CI: 51.0%, 57.7%) Being male [AOR = 1.85, 95% CI: (1.35, 2.54), P < 0.001], not having a current habit of substance use [AOR = 2.38, 95% CI: (1.73, 3.26), P < 0.001], having a monthly income of less than 51.31 USD [AOR = 0.19, 95% CI: (0.04, 0.88), P = 0.001]; and not having a prior history of vaccination experience [AOR = 0.40, 95% CI: (0.29, 0.54), P < 0.001] were significantly associated with COVID-19 vaccine acceptance.ConclusionThis study reveals that the proportion of COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among residents of Dire Dawa Administration, Eastern Ethiopia, was 54.4%. Factors like being male and not having a current habit of substance use were positively associated, whereas having a monthly income of less than 51.31 USD and not having a prior history of vaccination experience were negatively associated with COVID-19 vaccine acceptance. Health information dissemination and economic empowerment are crucial to improving COVID-19 vaccine acceptance among the community. This study provides valuable data for policymakers to plan early vaccination programs and tackle the challenges identified in the study.

Self-care practice and associated factors among patients with diabetes on follow-up at Yirgalem General Hospital, Sidama, Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundSelf-care practice is an integral and efficient part of comprehensive diabetes management, which could be influenced by various socio-demographic, clinical, and lifestyle factors.ObjectiveThe study aimed to assess the level of diabetes self-care practice and its associated factors among patients with diabetes on follow-up at Yirgalem General Hospital, Yirgalem, Sidama, Ethiopia.MethodologyAn Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February 15 to May 10, 2022, involving 298 patients with diabetes on follow-up at Yirgalem General Hospital. A pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaire was utilized to collect data from patients. A descriptive analysis was conducted to determine the level of good self-care practice. Bivariate and multivariable binary logistics regression were performed to determine factors associated with good diabetic self-care practice. Associations with a p-value < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.ResultThe overall good diabetic self-care practice among patients was 59.4%. Regarding the specific domains of care, 15 (5%) participants had good self-glucose monitoring care, 228 (76.5%) had good exercise self-care, 268 (89.9%) had good dietary self-care, 228 (76.5%) had good foot self-care, and 260 (87.2%) had good diabetic medication adherence. Single marital status (AOR = 5.7, 95% CI: (1.418, 22.915), urban residence (AOR = 2.992, 95% CI: (1.251, 7.153)), and having a glucometer (AOR = 2.273, 95% CI: (1.083, 4.772)) were factors that were significantly associated with good diabetic self-care practice.ConclusionGood diabetic self-care practices among participants was low. Marital status, place of residence, and having a glucometer were statistically significant predictors of good diabetic self-care practices. Targeted intervention addressing those patients from rural areas to increase awareness and practice of self-care, as well as the promotion of having a glucometer at home for self-glucose monitoring is recommended.

Effectiveness of Outreach Clinical Mentoring and Supportive Supervision on Biomedical Waste Management in Nasarawa State, North Central Nigeria: An Intervention Study

Introduction: Health care activities are essential because they restore health and save lives. At the same time however, they generate large quantity of wastes and by-products that need to be handled safely and disposed of properly. Proper health care waste handling is a worrisome issue around the world, especially in developing countries. This study is meant to determine the effect of clinical mentoring and supportive supervision on the knowledge of, attitude to and practice of biomedical waste management.  Method: A quasi-experimental study design with both qualitative and quantitative components was used. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 436 study participants who met the inclusion criteria. The data tools were pre-tested interviewer-administered questionnaires and supervisory check lists for the quantitative component on the one hand, and a focus group discussion guide for the qualitative component on the other hand. The interventions were in the form of both physical and virtual mentoring and routine supportive supervision. The participants in the control arm of the study did not receive mentoring or supportive supervision. The study lasted for 24 weeks, within which there were weekly, scheduled mentoring/supportive supervisory visits to only the facilities in the study arm.  Data Analysis: Quantitative data was collated, checked for completeness and analyzed using IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences (version 23). Quantitative variables were described using frequencies, percentages, means and standard deviations. Chi-square test, Fisher’s exact test and Paired t test were used to test associations. At 95% confidence interval, p-value less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Qualitative data was analyzed using Nvivo statistiscal software, version 11.  Result: The mean age group of the study participants was 33.30(±8.97). More females (50.80%) than males (49.20%) participated in the study. Majority of the participants had tertiary education (88.45%). The predominant occupation was community health work (30.75%). In the study group, 66.4% of the respondents had poor knowledge score pre-intervention. This decreased significantly to 10.0% post-intervention (p&lt;0.05). In the control arm of the study, there was no significant difference in the findings at the start and after the study. The proportion of respondents who had positive attitude score in the study arm, increased significantly from 40.3% before intervention to 77.8% after intervention (p&lt;0.05). In a similar vein, the proportion with appropriate practice in the study arm also increased from 32.7% before intervention to 88.3% after intervention with a statistically significant difference. In the control arm, there was no significant difference in the findings at the beginning of the study compared to the findings at the end of the study. In the study arm, majority of the respondents who demonstrated poor knowledge of, attitude to and practice of health care waste management at the baseline focus group discussion sessions, showed significant improvement at the post-intervention sessions. In the control arm, there was no significant difference in the focus group discussion findings. Conclusion: The findings above are suggestive of the fact that the interventions were effective. There is, therefore, the need for the establishment of incentive schemes like clinical mentoring and regular supportive supervision of health care workers on health care waste management in order to safeguard human, animal and environmental health.

Determinants of thinness among school adolescents in Legehida district, Amhara region, north east Ethiopia: an unmatched case-control study

BackgroundAdolescence is a critical stage of human growth and development, and adolescent nutritional status is a significant predictor of health outcomes. However, adolescents in developing countries, including Ethiopia, have received little attention from nutrition-related programs in recent decades. Consequently, malnutrition among adolescents is a widespread issue in these regions.ObjectiveThe study aimed to identify the determinants of thinness among school adolescents in the Legehida district of South Wollo Zone, Northeastern Ethiopia.MethodsA school-based, unmatched case-control study was conducted from January 20 to February 2, 2019. A total of 525 school-aged adolescents (175 cases and 350 controls) from the Legehida district were enrolled using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected through interview-administered questionnaires and anthropometric measurements. EpiData version 3.1 was used for data entry, while Anthroplus software was employed for anthropometric measurement entry and analysis. The data were then exported to SPSS version 25 for further analysis. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to assess the determinants of adolescent thinness.ResultsIn this study, thinness among school adolescents was significantly associated with several factors: the absence of a latrine at home [AOR = 8.2, 95% CI (3.8, 8.17)], meal skipping per day [AOR = 3.1, 95% CI (1.2, 7.3)], inadequate consumption of fruits and vegetables [AOR = 7.5, 95% CI (3.9, 14.5)], having more than four household members [AOR = 13.6, 95% CI (7.1, 26)], and the consumption of unsafe water [AOR = 7.7, 95% CI (3.8, 15.6)].Conclusions and recommendationsThe absence of latrines and access to clean water, dietary factors, and family size emerged as significant contributors to adolescent thinness in this study. Addressing the nutritional challenges faced by adolescents will require collaborative efforts across sectors.